When I tell someone that I will be working in Detroit for the summer, they will often get a nervous look in their eyes. I am told to be careful by people whose exposure to the city stops at the TV screen or the headline of their local paper. The reputation that Detroit carries often times precedes it, bringing a negative interpretation that is, in many cases, undeserving. It is true that crime can be particularly prevalent in parts of the city, however, it is important to not let this issue shape our perceptions of a city to which America owes much. Admittedly, even as a Michigan resident my whole life, I allowed my Detroit to be shaped by the 6 o’clock news. That is, until I actually started to do some research on the city. What I discovered shocked me. Where I expected to find depression, I found hope. Instead of abandoned houses, I found community gardens. Where I anticipated empty streets, I discovered bustling storefronts. I couldn’t help it but to be curious. I applied to DukeEngage-Detroit and soon enough I was off to the city. During my first week of the program I have met and learned about many people who refuse to let other people define their Detroit. People like Dan Gilbert, whose Detroit consists of sprawling skylines; a utopia for business. To people whose Detroit consists of a sustainable environment; where upwards of 51% of Detroit food is locally grown. These are people that don’t concern themselves what everyone else is saying about their city; they are making their own noise. This first week has inspired me to create my own vision for a better Detroit. What is that vision? I have to say that I don’t know yet, but I’m excited to find out. Through my tour of the city I have had the opportunity to see what Detroit was, what it is, and what people want it to be. I would be lying if I said Detroit has no problems; the crime rate along with blight are daunting issues for anyone to confront. But through the course of this past week I have met people with such an incredible amount of tenacity and pride in their city that I know, as people work to shape their Detroit, there will be no limit to what the city can accomplish. And I intend to contribute to those accomplishments in whatever way I can.

Ben, I'm so glad that you are taking part in this program, especially since you are FROM Michigan. I love the observations that you have made beyond that 6 o'clock news and am really excited to see all that you accomplish this summer during your time at Detroit Future City!